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Kolkata Eateries Suffer LPG Crisis: Menu Cuts, Price Hikes
17 Mar
Summary
- Commercial LPG cylinders are scarce and expensive, selling for nearly Rs 4,000.
- Many food stalls in Salt Lake temporarily shut down due to cylinder scarcity.
- Vendors are reverting to coal and kerosene to cope with the LPG shortage.
Several of Kolkata's busiest office districts are experiencing significant changes to their lunch offerings due to a severe LPG shortage. Eateries and food stalls are grappling with scarce and expensive commercial gas cylinders, leading to increased prices, simplified menus, and business closures. In Dalhousie, one eatery owner reported simplifying the menu to focus on quicker dishes and raising prices by 5-10% as commercial cylinders cost nearly Rs 4,000 in the black market.
Vendors in areas like Salt Lake, outside the CGO Complex, have also felt the impact. More than half of the food stalls have temporarily suspended operations. Some vendors have reverted to traditional cooking methods, using wooden and coal ovens as commercial cylinders now cost around Rs 3,500. These shifts in cooking methods are an effort to maintain business despite the escalating costs and unavailability of LPG.
The effect is also evident in other prime locations like Park Street, Russell Street, and Camac Street. Lunch counters there are operating with reduced menus and higher prices. For example, chicken stew with bread, previously Rs 100, now costs Rs 125. Some office-goers have resorted to bringing food from home due to these changes.
